Which brands of soy sauce are gluten-free?

January 1, 2026 •

4 min read

Over 3 million Americans have Celiac disease, making the search for safe condiments a daily reality. While traditional soy sauce contains wheat, several reputable brands now offer high-quality gluten-free soy sauce options, as well as alternative products that provide a similar savory flavor.

Quick Summary

Several brands offer certified gluten-free soy sauce, with tamari being a common wheat-free variety. Always check labels for certification and ingredients, as traditional soy sauce typically contains wheat. Alternatives like coconut aminos also exist for those with soy or wheat sensitivities.

Key Points

Tamari is generally gluten-free: While traditional soy sauce (shoyu) contains wheat, Tamari is a variety typically made only from soybeans, though label verification is always recommended.
Kikkoman offers a dedicated GF version: The globally recognized Kikkoman brand provides a specially labeled 'Gluten-Free Soy Sauce' that uses rice instead of wheat to ensure safety.
San-J specializes in gluten-free products: This brand is a leader in the gluten-free market, offering certified organic, wheat-free Tamari.
Coconut aminos are a popular alternative: For those avoiding both gluten and soy, coconut aminos, made from coconut sap, provide a savory, slightly sweeter substitute.
Always check for certification: For celiacs, the safest products are those with a third-party gluten-free certification seal, guaranteeing less than 20 ppm of gluten.
Not all soy sauces are created equal: The presence of wheat in traditional soy sauce means that standard varieties are not safe for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease.
Other brands like La Choy are also available: La Choy is another option, as its formulation with hydrolyzed soy protein and corn syrup is typically gluten-free, but always read the label.

Understanding the Gluten in Soy Sauce

Traditional soy sauce, or 'shoyu', is typically made from a fermented mash of soybeans and roasted wheat. The inclusion of wheat means that most standard soy sauces contain gluten, making them unsafe for individuals with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, dedicated gluten-free versions use alternatives like rice or are brewed differently to eliminate the wheat component. A prime example of this is Tamari, a type of soy sauce that is often, but not always, brewed with little to no wheat.

The Key Difference: Shoyu vs. Tamari

Shoyu is the Japanese term for regular soy sauce, which includes wheat in its ingredients. Tamari is a variation that originated as a byproduct of miso paste production and is traditionally made solely from soybeans and salt. This makes many tamari products naturally gluten-free. It's crucial to note, however, that some brands add a small amount of wheat to their tamari for flavor, so reading the label is always necessary.

Leading Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Brands

Fortunately, a growing number of manufacturers recognize the need for gluten-free products. The following brands are well-regarded for their safe options:

Kikkoman: A global leader in soy sauce, Kikkoman offers a dedicated 'Gluten-Free Soy Sauce' line. It is naturally brewed and uses rice instead of wheat. They also produce a Tamari Soy Sauce, but it is their clearly labeled gluten-free version that provides absolute assurance.
San-J: A pioneer in the gluten-free market, San-J specializes in organic, wheat-free tamari. Many of their products are certified gluten-free and non-GMO, offering a reliable choice for consumers with dietary restrictions.
La Choy: Historically known for its widely available soy sauce, the La Choy brand has long been a gluten-free option. Their ingredients typically consist of water, salt, hydrolyzed soy protein, and corn syrup, which are all wheat-free.
Bragg: While technically a liquid aminos product rather than a fermented soy sauce, Bragg Liquid Aminos is a popular and potent soy-based alternative. It is naturally gluten-free and made from non-GMO soybeans and purified water.
Eden Foods: Known for its organic products, Eden Foods offers a range of organic tamari soy sauces that are traditionally brewed without wheat.

Comparison of Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Brands


Brand	Product Type	Gluten Certification	Key Features	Taste Profile
Kikkoman	Brewed GF Soy Sauce	Certified Gluten-Free	Widely available, same flavor as original	Balanced, savory, versatile
San-J	Tamari	Certified Gluten-Free, Organic, Non-GMO	Pioneer in GF soy sauce, diverse flavors	Richer, less salty than traditional
La Choy	Soy Sauce	Gluten-Free	Affordable, readily found in many stores	Lighter, less complex flavor
Bragg	Liquid Aminos	N/A (inherently GF)	Unfermented, soy-based, higher protein	Slightly sweeter, less fermented taste
Eden Foods	Tamari	Certified Organic, Wheat-Free	Traditionally brewed, focus on quality	Deep, savory, authentic tamari flavor

Alternatives to Soy Sauce for Gluten-Free Diets

If you have a soy allergy in addition to gluten sensitivity, or simply prefer a different flavor, there are several excellent alternatives:

Coconut Aminos: Made from the fermented sap of coconut blossoms and salt, this is a very popular soy-free and gluten-free alternative. It is notably sweeter and milder than soy sauce but works well in many recipes.
Liquid Aminos (Soy-Free): While Bragg's contains soy, some brands offer soy-free versions derived from other plant proteins. These provide a savory, umami flavor without either soy or wheat.
Fish Sauce: For certain Asian dishes, fish sauce can provide a suitable umami punch. It is naturally gluten-free, but as with all products, reading the label is important to ensure no wheat-based additives are included.

How to Verify Gluten-Free Status

For those with Celiac disease, verifying a product's gluten-free status is paramount. Look for these indicators on the packaging:

Gluten-Free Labeling: In the US, products labeled 'gluten-free' must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is generally considered safe for celiacs.
Certification Seals: Look for seals from reputable third-party organizations, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). These seals confirm that the product has been tested to meet strict gluten-free standards.
Ingredient List: Always check the ingredients for wheat, barley, or rye. Be cautious with hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), as it can sometimes be derived from wheat.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of condiments can be tricky on a gluten-free diet, but with careful label-reading, you can confidently find a delicious and safe soy sauce. Tamari is the most common wheat-free style, but well-known brands like Kikkoman and San-J also provide certified gluten-free options. Furthermore, alternatives like coconut aminos offer excellent choices for those with additional soy sensitivities. By knowing what to look for, you can continue to enjoy the rich, savory flavor that soy sauce brings to your favorite dishes without compromising your health.

Note: For comprehensive guidance on managing Celiac disease, please consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. Authoritative sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation provide extensive information on safe products and dietary guidelines. For more info visit: Celiac Disease Foundation

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right soy sauce depends on your dietary needs. For celiacs, certified gluten-free products are the safest bet. For general gluten intolerance, tamari or naturally brewed versions may suffice. When in doubt, read the label and seek certified products to ensure your health and safety. With so many options available today, going gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing flavor in your cooking.

Using Gluten-Free Soy Sauce in Your Cooking

Substituting a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in a recipe is straightforward. Use it in a 1:1 ratio for regular soy sauce. It works just as well in marinades, stir-fries, and as a dipping sauce. Since Tamari has a richer flavor, you might use a little less to avoid overpowering a dish. Coconut aminos, being sweeter, can be balanced with a touch more salt or other savory ingredients. Experiment with these different options to find your favorite gluten-free umami flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Tamari is gluten-free. While traditionally made without wheat, some brands add a small amount for flavor. It is crucial to always check the label for a gluten-free certification or a list of ingredients.

Tamari generally has a richer, smoother, and less salty flavor than traditional soy sauce. Regular soy sauce, which contains wheat, can have a slightly sharper and more complex taste.

Yes, coconut aminos are an excellent gluten-free and soy-free alternative. They have a milder, sweeter flavor than soy sauce and are a great option for people with soy sensitivities or those looking for a lower sodium alternative.

Yes, gluten-free soy sauce can be used as a 1:1 substitute for regular soy sauce in most recipes, including marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces. Keep in mind that some brands, like San-J, might have a richer flavor profile.

No. While Kikkoman makes a gluten-free product, their regular soy sauce contains wheat and is not safe for individuals with Celiac disease. Even trace amounts can cause a reaction.

The most reliable way is to look for a third-party certification seal, like from the GFCO. This indicates that the product has been tested to contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. You should also check the ingredient list for wheat or its derivatives.

Bragg Liquid Aminos is a condiment made from unfermented soybeans and purified water. It is naturally gluten-free and can be used as a soy sauce alternative, though it has a distinct, less fermented flavor.

Yes, some brands, like Kikkoman and San-J, offer low-sodium versions of their gluten-free products. Additionally, coconut aminos tend to be significantly lower in sodium than traditional soy sauce.